Good planning news: Boronia City (Heights) Limits

Could this be good news for Boronia residents? Is this an example for Stonnington? Can constant, passionate campaigning from residents lead to better outcomes? Will the minister for planning approve the idea?

Simple height restictions don’t solve all problems but they sure as hell go a long way to stopping overdevelopment before it starts. Appropriate Development for Boronia, the group behind the proposal clearly knows how to stand up for residents – one of its petition contained 3200 + signatures. The good burghers of Stonnington should be humbled by their display of community spirit.

Beyond 590 Orrong Road, height limits could assist Harvey Street and Wynnstay Road residents who are fighting a massive proposal running between the two streets which would turn a solitary two-storey home into a 4.5 storey development with 30 apartments, 51 bedrooms and just 30 or so car parks. From five people to around 80.

If that idea sickens you email Brad bradhyde@virginbroadband.com.au and he’ll add you to the email list to keep you up to date. Council has received over 100 objections so far so you won’t be alone.

This development means traffic gridlock, overflowing train stations and tram stops, no more on-street car parking, a blighted skyline and less privacy for current residents. It will also impinge on adjoining public land. It defies the lowrise local residential style.

This development will set a precedent for further development.

This is a rare opportunity for Stonnington to increase open space, develop a school or a stellar medium density residential development. We do not need another Docklands.

Already we know that Toorak Station is within developers' sites. How long before Hawksburn and Armadale are redeveloped?

Stonnington Council - after much campaigning - refused the permit but developer Lend Lease successfully overturned this decision at VCAT. This VCAT decision is in turn being appealed in the Supreme Court in April 2013.

Our opponent is smart, moneyed, experienced and well connected. We won't win this without your help.

Lend Lease has 'consulted' but never compromised. They entirely underestimated our ability to fight their plan.

Reading this is just the beginning - we need you to work with us to fight the towers.